A spinning top precesses due to the action of a ____________ due to ____________. Choose the best option.
A. torque, angular momentum
B. force, gravity
C. torque, gravity
D. torque, gravity
and angular momentum
Answer: D. torque, gravity and angular momentum
it can only be one answer
Probably D since it has two of the three options
The correct answer is A. torque, angular momentum.
To understand why, we need to break down the question and analyze the concepts involved:
1. Precession: Precession is a motion in which the axis of rotation of an object moves in a circular path around a fixed point. The spinning top undergoes precession when its axis gradually rotates around the vertical axis while the top continues to spin.
2. Torque: Torque is a rotational force that causes an object to rotate. In the case of the spinning top, torque is produced by an external force acting on it.
3. Angular Momentum: Angular momentum is the measure of an object's tendency to keep rotating about an axis. It is the product of an object's moment of inertia (a property that quantifies its resistance to rotational motion) and its angular velocity (rate of rotation).
Now, let's see how torque and angular momentum come into play:
As the spinning top spins, its angular momentum is conserved (assuming there are no external torques acting on it). However, when an external force (such as friction with the ground) is applied to the top, it exerts a torque on the top.
This torque causes a change in the top's angular momentum, which results in precession. The axis of rotation of the top moves in a circular path due to this torque.
Therefore, the correct answer is A. torque, angular momentum because the spinning top precesses due to the action of a torque (external force) caused by a change in its angular momentum.